SA v IND 2018: Shikhar Dhawan is back at nets ahead of the first Test

Dhawan has been in fine form across all formats since last 6 months.

India opener Shikhar Dhawan, who was spotted limping while entering the team hotel in Mumbai last week, hit the nets in Cape Town on Wednesday (January 3).

The southpaw has been doubtful for the opening Test starting on Friday (January 5) ever since he hurt his ankle. However, the practice session today suggests that Dhawan is recovering well.

"Dhawan is fine and there is no discomfort as he hit the nets today. You can see he is moving freely. But a final call on the playing XI isn't something that I can talk about. That is for the coach and captain to decide," a member in the team management told CricketNext.

In fact, as per the reports in CricketNext, Dhawan had a long chat with the chairman of selectors MSK Prasad before hitting the nets. They were seen discussing strategies with movement of the hands as coach Shastri stood behind the nets.

Later in the day, BCCI also confirmed that Dhawan is fit and available for selection in the Cape Town Test.

“NEWS: #TeamIndia opener Shikhar Dhawan fit and available for selection for the 1st Test against South Africa. All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja down with viral illness #FreedomSeries #SAvIND,” BCCI tweeted.

NEWS: #TeamIndia opener Shikhar Dhawan fit and available for selection for the 1st Test against South Africa. All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja down with viral illness #FreedomSeries#SAvIND.